Newberry expected on board today
By PHIL BARBER
THE PRESS DEMOCRAT
The Raiders missed out on most of the big-ticket free-agent offensive linemen of 2007, but are on the verge of adding a recognizable name. The team was deep into negotiations with free-agent center Jeremy Newberry on Monday night, and was expected to finalize a deal this morning - assuming he passes a physical.
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Newberry grew up in Antioch, attended Cal and played nine seasons for the 49ers, though injuries have limited him to 11 games over the past three years. A two-time Pro Bowl choice, he was one of the best centers before the cartilage began to deteriorate in his knees; he underwent two knee surgeries in an eight-month span. Newberry, 31 later this month, could challenge Jake Grove for the starting position in Oakland.
Meanwhile, the Raiders have restructured two contracts to gain some margin under the salary cap, signing new deals with offensive lineman Barry Sims and wide receiver Ronald Curry. Both men were due March roster bonuses in the neighborhood of $5 million.
Sims signed a four-year contract that calls for a total of $5.5 million in salary and signing bonus in 2007. After this season, the Raiders can lock in an option for a fifth year. The total pact would net Sims $27 million over five years. The eight-year veteran expects to challenge Robert Gallery for the starting job at left tackle, with the runner-up likely moving to right tackle.
"All Barry has ever wanted is a chance to compete for the job," said his agent, Ken Vierra.
Sims has started 103 games for the Raiders, but was moved to guard by coach Art Shell last season, then benched in favor of rookie Paul McQuistan late in the year.
Curry completed a five-year, $20 million deal that doles out $8.5 million over the first two seasons. He overcame the second tear of his left Achilles' tendon to lead the Raiders with 62 receptions for 727 yards in 2006, despite starting only four games.
The Raiders also tendered a minimum offer of $850,000 to restricted free-agent running back ReShard Lee. Another team can sign Lee without compensating them, though the Raiders have right of first refusal.
Finally, tight end Daniel Graham, a free agent who spent his first five seasons with New England, was expected to visit Oakland Monday or today. Graham caught 120 passes for 1,393 yards with the Patriots.
Silverandblack.com reported that another tight end, Reggie Kelly (formerly with the Bengals), also met with the Raiders Monday.
By PHIL BARBER
THE PRESS DEMOCRAT
The Raiders missed out on most of the big-ticket free-agent offensive linemen of 2007, but are on the verge of adding a recognizable name. The team was deep into negotiations with free-agent center Jeremy Newberry on Monday night, and was expected to finalize a deal this morning - assuming he passes a physical.
ADVERTISEMENT
Newberry grew up in Antioch, attended Cal and played nine seasons for the 49ers, though injuries have limited him to 11 games over the past three years. A two-time Pro Bowl choice, he was one of the best centers before the cartilage began to deteriorate in his knees; he underwent two knee surgeries in an eight-month span. Newberry, 31 later this month, could challenge Jake Grove for the starting position in Oakland.
Meanwhile, the Raiders have restructured two contracts to gain some margin under the salary cap, signing new deals with offensive lineman Barry Sims and wide receiver Ronald Curry. Both men were due March roster bonuses in the neighborhood of $5 million.
Sims signed a four-year contract that calls for a total of $5.5 million in salary and signing bonus in 2007. After this season, the Raiders can lock in an option for a fifth year. The total pact would net Sims $27 million over five years. The eight-year veteran expects to challenge Robert Gallery for the starting job at left tackle, with the runner-up likely moving to right tackle.
"All Barry has ever wanted is a chance to compete for the job," said his agent, Ken Vierra.
Sims has started 103 games for the Raiders, but was moved to guard by coach Art Shell last season, then benched in favor of rookie Paul McQuistan late in the year.
Curry completed a five-year, $20 million deal that doles out $8.5 million over the first two seasons. He overcame the second tear of his left Achilles' tendon to lead the Raiders with 62 receptions for 727 yards in 2006, despite starting only four games.
The Raiders also tendered a minimum offer of $850,000 to restricted free-agent running back ReShard Lee. Another team can sign Lee without compensating them, though the Raiders have right of first refusal.
Finally, tight end Daniel Graham, a free agent who spent his first five seasons with New England, was expected to visit Oakland Monday or today. Graham caught 120 passes for 1,393 yards with the Patriots.
Silverandblack.com reported that another tight end, Reggie Kelly (formerly with the Bengals), also met with the Raiders Monday.
